Mario D'Auria

The winner of the 2014 Student Academic Choice Award for Best Graduate Teaching Assistant was Mario D'Auria of the Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

Biography:

Mario D'Auria is a PhD student in the Department of Electrical & Electronic Engineering. His project, funded by IeMRC integrates thick film technology, laser micro-machining and 3D printing to realise novel low-cost RF components and RF-MEMS. He is a committee member of IMAPS-UK and IMAPS Europe.

"I was moved by the notion that my efforts made the difference for someone"

Reaction to winning the SACA for Best GTA

"I was aware of the Best GTA award, but the nominatino was totally unexpected and winning the award an exciting moment. My priority was always to focus on the personal development of my students. I was moved by the notion that my efforts made the difference for someone and, at the moment of collecting the award, was left without words and about to cry. It meant a lot for me, both professionally and personally."

What students said about Mario D'Auria

"He is literally the most patient and empathetic member of staff who actually knows what he's talking about. He explains all the electrical engineering concepts thoroughly with clarity, without being patronising or mean."

"Everyone loves him; it's got to the point where we have to fight for his attention."

"I thoroughly believe he fulfills the criteria as stated - he is an effective demonstrator and a reliable person for support (many a time have we called him for one to one support and with enthusiasm he has always been there for us, sacrificing his own free time for us worthless first years)."

"Before meeting him electrical engineering labs were but an excuse to watch How I Met Your Mother, but thanks to him we have found a new love for LTSpice and opamps. So in summary, he: 1) is actually the nicest most patient GTA 2) has the most infectious enthusiasm and humour 3) actually knows what he's talking about 4) treats us all individually and 5) has an excellent taste in baking. Many thanks Mario!"